Last time our spy photographers caught the upcoming Bentley SUV roaming the streets of Britain, the mule was cleverly disguised as an Audi Q7. Not exactly surprising considering the two will share the same platform, but obviously disappointing for those anxious to see the looks of the new luxury->ke505 SUV->ke145, us included. Less than a month has passed since then, and we can finally see some of the details adorning the company's first ever SUV, as the Audi->ke14-like mule just turned into a proper Bentley prototype wearing a heap of familiar details.

As expected, the overall styling goes back to the EXP 9 F concept that previewed the production model. However, the large family ride is set to receive a host of cues already present on other Bentley->ke15 models.

Essentially a beefier Flying Spur with a wagon->ke143-like rear end, the SUV shares the sedan's massive mesh grille and headlamps. What sets this SUV apart are the large intakes flanking the grille, a more pronounced hood, and a more angular front end. However, the latter might be just an effect that could disappear as soon as the camo is taken away. Either way, the front fascia is imposing enough for a luxury->ke505 SUV of this stature.

Click past the jump to read more about the future Bentley SUV.

2016 Bentley Falcon

Around back, the camouflage is too heavy for us to make out any details. The printed taillights are larger than the actual units, which we expect to feature a narrower design and the company's already familiar cluster design. Below the simple bumper sits a pair of fake chrome tips that are meant to hide the actual exhaust configuration. Expect a lot of things to change on the rear, with more skin to be revealed by the end of the year.

When viewed from the side, the SUV showcases its muscular fenders, its raked rear glass, and a set of large wheels. The rims feature a rather strange architecture, with the twin five-spoke layout being built around unequal spokes.

Moving under the hood, this prototype is clearly working on gasoline power. There's no word as to what unit might be hiding in the engine bay, but we're looking at either a V-8 or a W-12 engine. We expect both mills to arrive along with the SUV in 2016, with a hybrid->ke147 powertrain to join the lineup a year after that.

Why It Matters

Although the prototype seen here is far from being the finished product, at least now we know it's an authentic Bentley that carries the company's unmistakable design language. Moreover, the manufacturer appears to have dropped the cues that made the EXP 9 F concept receive a lot of heat and went for a more subtle appearance. Sure, the so-called Falcon won't be a beauty queen, but the twin headlamp configuration works like a charm.

Spy Shots

2016 Bentley SUV - rendering